Though the media in Asia and the rest of the world mainly applauded President Obama’s historic visit to Myanmar (Burma), some in the media nonetheless felt compelled to draw attention to his linguistic shortcomings. Oh well…and, really, they did have a point. What happened was that Obama had to deal…
Tag: Myanmar
PHILIPPINES: Hey Obama- Call Us Collect, If You Want!
Almost immediately after the reelection of President Barack Obama, the White House announced that he would visit Myanmar (Burma) as his first foreign policy initiative at the start of a three-stop tour of Southeast Asia that will also cover Thailand and Cambodia. The tour excludes the Philippines, a longtime strategic…
MYANMAR-BURMA: The Color of Change
Ask, and you shall receive. The people of Burma are undergoing a progressive change in their state-run media that is slow to start- but has nonetheless begun. The military coup of 1962 has reduced the reading of state-run newspapers for the mundane purpose of the obituary page. The new leader…
IN REVIEW: Finding Humor in Myanmar
Zarganar, a famous Burmese comedian who was recently released from prison last year, is set to appear in a popular UK comedy show, “No Pressure to be Funny.” Since the late 80’s, Zarganar has been in and out of prison, persecuted for speaking out against the oppressive rule of the military…
MYANMAR: Headlines Capture Essence of Political Change
Recent headlines in the Myanmar media are a clear indication of a polarized country. Some articles touch on Japanese plans to develop the Myanmar Stock Exchange. Others describe the plights of 471 confirmed political prisoners in Myanmar, with 465 more awaiting confirmation. Looking at the Myanmar headlines on Mizzima News,…
MYANMAR: Caution Signs on the Road to Burma
The country of Burma (but these days Myanmar, in the official UN nomenclature) is suddenly receiving a lot of positive press, and rightly so. The military junta has released a record number of political prisoners in recent months, opened dialogue between the government and ethnic minorities, and even held some…